It was fascinating but uncomfortable viewing. It touched on the subject of child sex abuse and the devastating consequences of the distasteful crime.
The documentary used the fly on the wall, cinema verite, technique with frank and penetrating interviews alongside footage of the phenomenal popularity of Hillsong services in enormous worship centres packed to capacity. The growth of Hillsong and its popularity among young adults cannot be ignored.
Having worked in the area of public protection and custody of sex offenders, and in prison ministry, I know how tragic and truly horrific these crimes can be. The care of post custodial sex offenders raises many problems and painful decisions. We need the vetting and safeguarding processes in our churches, youth organizations, workplaces and leisure clubs etc.
In the 20th century many sex crimes were not reported, recorded and recognised. Some have only come to light in recent years, because of fear, guilt, denial and disgust. During the wartime evacuation of children in 1939 onwards, children were put in perilous situations and sometimes people in positions of responsibility took advantage of these troubled times. Some children were too traumatised to complain and to tell what they had experienced. In some cases the perpetrators were considered to be completely above reproach, like Pentecostal Pastor Houston in the Hillsong documentary.
For some the effervescent Hillsong worship will be appealing and edifying, but others will find it shallow and ephemeral, without depth and substance. I rejoice in seeing thousands singing praise to God. I also want to see serious measures taken when child abuse takes place.
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